Bureau of Immigration (BI) Commissioner Norman Tansingco expressed his disappointment over reports that a trafficking victim rescued in a scam hub in Myanmar was again caught working for a similar company in Pasay.
Tansingco said that Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT) shared that during the raid, which happened last August 1, one of the Filipinos rescued in Myanmar was working for the raided POGO company.
“It’s disheartening to see these victims being exploited over and over again,” said Tansingco.
He lamented that the government has been giving assistance to repatriated victims, only to hear stories of them going back to the same employers after repatriation.
“We support the recommendation of the IACAT to disincentivize victims who again depart without proper documentation, or end up in similar companies here in the Philippines,” said Tansingco.
The move, according to Tansingco, will discourage workers from accepting offers to work in illegal companies.
Apart from disincentivizing illegal workers, Tansingco renewed his calls for a whole-of-government approach to address trafficking from its roots.
“There must also be programs that would steer these victims away from illegal industries,” said Tansingco. “Para hindi na nila gawing negosyo ito,” he added.
Manila City declares Pura Luka Vega persona non grata
Pura Luka Vega has received the status of “persona non grata” in the City of Manila, indicating that she is not welcome within the city anymore.
As reported by DZBB Super Radyo, the city’s council reached a unanimous decision to approve this resolution.
This decision was prompted by Pura Luka Vega’s remix performance of “Ama Namin,” during which she wore an outfit inspired by the Black Nazarene. The councilors found this performance offensive.
District 5 Councilor Atty. Jaybee Hizon emphasized that while freedom of speech is important, it should not be employed to insult or disrespect religious beliefs.
The councilors further highlighted the significance of the Black Nazarene to the city, particularly due to its association with the annual Traslacion procession.
Additionally, several other provinces, including General Santos City, Floridablanca in Pampanga, and Toboso in Negros Occidental, have also designated Pura Luka Vega as persona non grata.
Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri has also expressed that Pura Luka Vega could be subject to criminal charges.
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